Weight Management

Weight management services under TRICARE include obesity screening, dietary counseling, and certain medical interventions to help beneficiaries achieve and maintain a healthy weight. TRICARE covers these services as part of its preventive care and treatment benefits.

Weight management services covered by TRICARE: • Obesity screening and BMI assessment (no cost as preventive care) • Nutritional counseling and dietary guidance • Behavioral counseling for weight management • Medically supervised weight loss programs • Bariatric surgery (when medically necessary with prior authorization) • FDA-approved weight loss medications (formulary dependent)

Bariatric surgery coverage: • Prior authorization required • Must meet specific BMI and medical criteria • Comprehensive evaluation before surgery • Post-surgical follow-up care included • Network surgical centers recommended for lower costs

Preventive obesity services at no cost: • BMI screening for adults and children • Counseling for patients with BMI of 30 or higher • Intensive behavioral therapy for obesity • Follow-up appointments for weight management

Requirements for weight management services: • Documented medical necessity for treatment • Referral may be required for TRICARE Prime • Prior authorization for bariatric surgery and intensive programs • Use of TRICARE-authorized providers

Weight management is an important component of overall health, and TRICARE provides multiple pathways to support beneficiaries in achieving healthy weight goals.